South Cook News

Keith Pekau, the mayor of Orland Park and Republican nominee for Illinois' 6th Congressional district, recently said that he does not support inappropriate events aimed at children - specifically, the Downers Grove library's upcoming "Drag Queen Bingo" event.

The Downers Grove Public Library is hosting a "Drag Queens Bingo" event on Oct. 11, geared towards children in grades 7 through 12. The event description notes that in addition to playing bingo, there will be a "short drag performance."

"I join parents across the district in denouncing this event, just as I would denounce a library introducing kids to straight sex by holding a burlesque show," Pekau said in an Aug. 29 Facebook post. "To be clear, I have no interest in regulating the private, consensual activities and decisions of adults. This event, however, targets children. It’s inappropriate, and an unacceptable use of taxpayer funds. “Furthermore, I call on Sean Casten to join me - as a public official and as a father - in denouncing this inappropriate event and unacceptable use of public resources."

Downers Grove Commissioner Leslie Sadowski-Fugitt defended the event in a Facebook post, writing, "So proud of the Downers Grove Public Library for hosting drag bingo! We are extremely lucky to have an amazing staff team and library board who are dedicated to DEI and ensuring a sense of belonging for all at one of our most important public institutions. I am aware that a certain group is trying to rile up its base. Let me be clear: Your hate is not welcome here. Please stop making it what it is not (I won't even repeat their nonsense). It is a space where those in our LGBTQ+ community can feel loved and welcomed for EXACTLY who they are. They get to celebrate those who are now living their best lives, expressing themselves through hair, makeup, and clothing. It is an art form. It is simply getting to unapologetically be."

Shaw Local reported that the event has been the topic of discussion in local community Facebook groups, with one member writing, "You folks have lost your moral compass. The intent for inclusiveness is out of control. As parents we should be teaching our children respect of one another, I 100% agree with that, but the fact that things like this are being celebrated in our town is disgusting. These events are a fight against traditional values and demonize those with high moral character. This isn’t a political issue or left or right issue, it’s a moral issue.”

Pekau won the Republican nomination for Illinois' 6th Congressional House seat in June and will face off against incumbent Democrat Sean Casten in the November general election, according to Ballotpedia.